A vertical quarter wave antenna with a good ground connection will:

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option A — Radiate omni-directionally

A vertical quarter-wave antenna relies on a ground plane to function as a complete dipole system. When properly grounded, it produces an omni-directional radiation pattern in the horizontal plane, providing the uniform coverage required for effective ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications across all bearings from the vessel.

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